Take the Leadership Test

by Steve Adubato, PhD

On a recent episode of “The Apprentice,” one of the contestants for another Donald Trump “dream job” was asked by Trump if she considered herself a good leader. They were in the boardroom, and of course contestants were trying to defend themselves. The answers were predictable. “Of course I’m a good leader.” “People like and respect me.” “I give clear direction.” “Yes, I AM a leader.” We’ve all heard these things before.

Making Goals That Work

by Steve Adubato, PhD

People often confuse being busy with being productive. One of the reasons professionals spin their wheels without moving forward is that they don't set realistic and relevant goals. People engage in a series of activities that cause them to work long hours. Yet, after six months or a year, what has actually been accomplished?

"Good to Great" Leadership

by Steve Adubato, PhD

In his best-selling book, "Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap…and Others Don't," Jim Collins and his team of researchers analyze what separates the average from the exceptional. Collins studied hundreds of organizations and found that a variety of factors, including organizational culture, the ability to "confront brutal facts" and open and honest communication made the difference.

Be Open to Feedback

by Steve Adubato, PhD

A big part of leadership involves coaching and mentoring. It's not enough that you as the leader achieve reach your potential. You have a responsibility to do everything possible to help those around you do the same thing. However, coaching and mentoring is a two-way street.

A Painful Lesson in Leadership

by Steve Adubato, PhD

There have been countless books written about essential leadership traits or characteristics, but sometimes being a great leader involves taking the blame for the actions of someone on your team. It's about sacrificing your personal and professional success for something larger. A lot of people talk the talk, but in a moment of truth Lt. Colonel Hank Keirsey (Ret.) walked the walk.

Virginia Bauer Leads from the Heart

by Steve Adubato, PhD

By any standard, Virginia Bauer is an exceptional leader. What is particularly interesting about her is that she didn't come to leadership by any traditional route. Virginia lost her husband David, who worked for Cantor Fitzgerald in the World Trade Center, on September 11. Years back, Ginny (as she likes to be called) worked for Merrill Lynch. But for the next 17 years she dedicated most of her life to her 3 children. But as was the case for thousands of people in our area, 9/11 changed everything.

Still Walking the Floors after 51 Years

by Steve Adubato, PhD

For over 60 years, Tom Infusino has had a connection with the supermarket business. Today he is the Chairman and CEO of Wakefern Food Corporation (ShopRite) and his pride and joy, ShopRite in Nutley, has been thriving for decades. (ShopRite has underwritten a variety of public television programs I have produced.)